merrion street

Responding to the reports of the killing of over 90 civilians, including children, in Houla, Syria, the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore said:

This is a deplorable act and a clear crime against humanity. Those responsible need to know that the international community will insist on full accountability for such atrocities.  Under the Annan Plan, Syria has committed to withdraw all troops and heavy weaponry from population centres.  This commitment must be honoured immediately and the international community will need to consider further steps if it is not.  I fully support calls that the UN Security Council should meet in emergency session as soon as possible.